How much does a cheap train ticket from Washington to Columbia cost?

The average train ticket price from Washington to Columbia is $186. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Washington to Columbia is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!

How long is the trip from Washington to Columbia?

A train trip between Washington and Columbia is around 10h 37m, although the fastest train will take about 10h 37m. This is the time it takes to travel the 652 km that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Washington and Columbia?

The number of trains from Washington to Columbia can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there is 1. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Washington to Columbia by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Washington to Columbia?

When taking the train from Washington to Columbia, you can travel comfortably and safely with Amtrak.

Train Washington to Columbia from $99 | Refundable Tickets

Next train departures

Next departures for Washington to Columbia on November 24
Operated by	Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended	Price and booking link
	Train	1:48pm	Union Station	10h 37m	12:25am	Columbia, SC	CheapestFastest
	Train	1:48pm	Union Station	10h 37m	12:25am	Columbia, SC	No tags

Last refresh of the prices: Last Friday at 11:47 AM EST.

Compare 2 ways to go from Washington to Columbia

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the bus stands out as a good way to reach Columbia. The journey takes about 9 hours 29 minutes, and with fares starting at just $158, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1bus per day

9h 29mAverage Duration

656 kmDistance

16kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions	Actions
Bus	Average Price$158 - $158	Average Duration9h 29m	CO₂ emissions 16kg CO₂e
Train	Average Price$104 - $721	Average Duration10h 37m	CO₂ emissions 59kg CO₂e

Train companies

Amtrak

4/55,601 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.6

Wifi3.6

Based on 5601 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the WiFi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at $104

US train and bus companies:Amtrak, Trenitalia, Renfe, VIA Rail Canada, Amtrak Acela, NS Nederlandse Spoorwegen, Iryo

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Washington, DC, US to Columbia, SC by train

How much does a cheap train ticket from Washington to Columbia cost?
The average train ticket price from Washington to Columbia is $186. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Washington to Columbia is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!
How long is the trip from Washington to Columbia?
A train trip between Washington and Columbia is around 10h 37m, although the fastest train will take about 10h 37m. This is the time it takes to travel the 652 km that separates the two cities.
How many daily trains are there between Washington and Columbia?
The number of trains from Washington to Columbia can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there is 1. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Washington to Columbia by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
Which train companies travel from Washington to Columbia?
When taking the train from Washington to Columbia, you can travel comfortably and safely with Amtrak.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

11-21

$220

11-22

$267

Today

$267

11-24

$267

11-25

$401

11-26

$694

11-27

$147

11-28

$178

The cheapest trip from Washington, DC, US to Columbia, SC was searched and found on Nov 27, 2025 with a price of $147

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Washington, DC, US to Columbia, SC, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $147 to $1,308 for a train ticket from Washington, DC, US to Columbia, SC based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $147 which is on 2025-11-27.